Djimon Hounsou Biography (3)
Born in Benin, West Africa, Hounsou moved to Paris at the age of 13 for his education. At 22, he was discovered by fashion designer Thierry Muglar, who immediately featured him in several of his design campaigns. Hounsou has also starred in commercials for David Fincher (Alien 3 and Seven) and legendary photographer, Herb Ritts.
Once established as an international model, Hounsou made the move to Los Angeles where he taught himself English (largely by watching television documentaries) and broke into acting. A featured role in the Janet Jackson video, Love Will Never Do Without You, caught the attention of agents and casting directors and led to small roles in such films as Stargate, Unlawful Entry and Deep Rising, before landing the career-making role Steven Spielberg's Amistad.
Hounsou's upcoming projects include Jim Sheridan's new, still untitled semi-autobiographical film, opening November 27th, and the Western Blueberry, directed by Jan Kounen. He will also star in the actioneer, Biker Boyz, and in the second installment of Lara Croft: Tomb Raider, also for Paramount Pictures.
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